Painting Prices: What You Need to Know Before You Pay

Thinking about buying a painting or hiring an artist? The first question is always the price tag. In the UK, painting costs can vary a lot, but the reasons behind the numbers are pretty straightforward. Knowing the main factors helps you avoid surprise invoices and makes it easier to pick an artist that fits your budget.

Key Factors That Influence Cost

First up, the medium matters. Oil paints are pricier than acrylics because the pigments and oils themselves cost more, and they need longer drying times. That extra time means the artist spends more hours on the piece, which pushes the price up. Acrylics dry fast, so a similar-sized work will usually be cheaper.

Second, the artist’s experience plays a big role. A brand‑new graduate might charge £150‑£300 for a small portrait, while a well‑known portrait painter in London could ask £2,000 or more for the same size. Look at their portfolio, ask about past commissions, and decide which level of skill matches what you’re after.

Third, size and detail are big drivers. A 30 × 40 cm oil portrait will cost less than a 60 × 80 cm full‑body piece with a complex background. Every extra square centimetre adds material cost and more hours on the canvas.

Finally, location and travel can add up. If an artist has to come to you for a live sitting, they might include travel expenses or a higher rate for the extra time spent on site.

Typical Price Ranges for Common Paintings

Portraits are the most common commission. In 2025, UK portrait painters usually charge:

• Head‑only, small (15‑20 cm): £200‑£500
• Half‑body, medium (30‑40 cm): £600‑£1,200
• Full‑body, large (50‑70 cm): £1,500‑£3,000

Oil landscapes tend to be a bit higher because of material costs. Expect:

• Small oil landscape (30 × 40 cm): £800‑£1,500
• Medium oil landscape (50 × 70 cm): £1,800‑£3,500
• Large oil landscape (70 × 100 cm): £4,000‑£8,000

Acrylic works are generally 20‑30 % cheaper than oil in the same size range. If you’re on a tight budget, ask the artist if they can switch to acrylic or use a limited colour palette to keep costs down.

Don’t forget extra fees. Some artists charge a “pre‑work” fee for sketches, a “materials” fee for canvas and frames, and a “royalty” if you plan to reproduce the image online. Get a written quote that lists everything, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

To get the best value, start by checking a few local artists, compare their portfolios, and ask for rough estimates. Most will give you a ballpark figure after hearing the size, style, and deadline you need. A quick chat can also reveal whether they’re flexible on materials or willing to do a shorter sitting session, which can save you money.

Bottom line: painting prices aren’t a mystery. They break down into medium, size, artist skill, and extra costs. By understanding these pieces, you can set a realistic budget and find an artist who delivers the look you want without breaking the bank.